Because of their limited mobility and sensation, wheelchair users are at risk for tissue injuries. We've known for decades that pressure and shear are clear culprits in these injuries, but continued research is determining that higher skin surface temperature and moisture are also contributing factors and management of this climate is also critical in healthy skin promotion.

Wheelchair cushions are designed to address specific seating goals. Each design principle has specific clinical benefits and considerations. Therefore, understanding the design of a wheelchair cushion is critical in achieving the desired benefits to the wheelchair user. This article explains the various design principles that are used in wheelchair cushions and the clinical application that should be considered when choosing a cushion.

Although cushions may look similar in design on the outside, the materials used on the inside can have a significant impact on their performance. Understanding how materials perform will improve the clinician's ability to select a cushion based on their client's goals. This article describes materials, their benefits, and the clinical considerations when selecting the most appropriate wheelchair cushion.

Why is this cushion made like this and is it right for my client? Wheelchair cushions are created using scientific properties to address the needs of wheelchair users. Understanding these properties will help the clinician select a cushion based on the desired effect that they are trying to achieve. This resource explains the technology used in cushions and the clinical application that should be considered when choosing a cushion. Examples of cushions which demonstrate these properties are also provided, however all cushions use these properties and are key to making your cushion selection.

Taking proper and accurate measurements of the client is an essential part of the seating and wheeled mobility equipment provision process. According to the document A Clinican Application Guide to Standardized Wheelchair Seating Measures of the Body and Seating Support Surfaces, Revised Edition (Waugh & Crane 2013), there are two levels of linear body measurements that can be taken to ensure proper fit of a wheelchair. When an individual has a bariatric presentation, one may need to take Level 2 measurements. These measurements may include maximum lower body width, ischial depth, waist depth, and individual knee width.

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DISCLAIMER: FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY. THIS WEBSITE (AND THE DOCUMENTS REFERENCED HEREIN) DO NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Sunrise Medical (CA) LLC ("Sunrise") does not provide clinician services. The information contained on this website (and the documents referenced herein), including, but not limited to, the text, graphics, images, and descriptions, are for informational purposes only and should be utilized as a general resource for clinicians and suppliers to then use clinical reasoning skills to determine optimal seating and mobility solutions for individual patients. No material on this website (or any document referenced herein) is intended to be used as (or a substitute for) professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard your professional medical training when providing medical advice or treatment because of something you have read on this website (or any document referenced herein). Clinicians should review this (and any other materials) carefully and confirm information contained herein with other sources. Reliance on this website (and the information contained herein) is solely at your own risk.

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